Invokana studies conducted at the University of San Diego this summer appear to show a link between taking the drug to treat type 1 diabetes and developing ketoacidosis. The news shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone familiar with the checkered history of the drug. In May 2015, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Drug Safety Communication warning Invokana users the type 2 diabetes drug could cause ketoacidosis.

The 8 week study followed 351 type 1 diabetes patients between the ages of 25 and 65. Participants were given either placebo, 100 mg or 300 mg doses of Invokana. No one in the placebo group developed diabetic ketoacidosis while five of the 100 mg participants and seven 300 mg participants developed the condition.

Ketoacidosis is a serious, potentially life threatening medical condition whereby the patient’s body is unable to properly metabolize blood acids (ketones). Ketone buildups may cause the blood’s pH to drop to unsafe levels, possibly resulting in diabetic coma or death if the condition is left untreated.

The FDA approved Invokana to treat only type 2 diabetes yet some experts fear physicians may prescribe Invokana for the “off label” purpose of treating type 1 diabetes. Janssen, the maker of Invokana, promotes the type 2 diabetes drug by giving millions of dollars in speaking fees to physicians.

Invokana treats type 2 diabetes by forcing the kidneys to expel excess sugar through urination. Consequently, the FDA warns Invokana may lead to increased risk of developing urinary tract infections and kidney problems. In September 2015, the FDA issued a second Drug Safety Communication on Invokana warning patients the type 2 diabetes drug may leave to decreased bone density and an increased risk of suffering bone fractures.

If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury while taking Invokana, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. The Invokana injury lawyers of The Cochran Firm, D.C. offer free, prompt, and confidential case reviews to Invokana injury victims. Contact The Cochran Firm, D.C. for your free Invokana lawsuit evaluation.